Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Detection

Portable & fixed-point H₂S detectors for healthcare, pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, agriculture, and environmental testing.

See our portable detectors

See our fixed detectors

About Hydrogen Sulfide Detection

Hydrogen sulfide (aka dihydrogen monosulfide; sewer gas; stink damp; sulfur dihydride; sulfureted hydrogen) is a colorless gas having a strong odor of rotten eggs.

The major use of the compound is in the production of elemental sulfur and sulfuric acid. Hydrogen sulfide is also employed in the production of thiorganic compounds; alkali metal sulfides; and to separate deuterium oxide (heavy water) from normal water. It is utilized in metallurgy; in extreme pressure lubricants and cutting oils; and as an agricultural disinfectant.

Occupational Health/Toxicology

While hydrogen sulfide is well known as a highly toxic and flammable gas, one of its most insidious properties is that it quickly deadens the sense of smell, so victims may be unaware of its presence—thus preventing any attempts at self-rescue. Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide may include tachycardia or bradycardia; hypotension, cyanosis (blue tint to skin and mucous membrane), cardiac palpitations, and cardiac arrhythmias. Dyspnea (shortness of breath), tachypnea (rapid respiratory rate), bronchitis, pulmonary edema, respiratory depression, and respiratory paralysis may occur.

Neurological effects include giddiness, irritability, drowsiness, weakness, confusion, delirium, amnesia, headache, sweating, and dizziness. Muscle cramping, tremor, excessive salivation, cough, convulsions, and coma may be noted. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly seen. Exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas may result in skin irritation, lacrimation, inability to detect odors, photophobia (heightened sensitivity to light), and blurred vision.

Full record on hydrogen sulfide from Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB), a database provided by the US National Library of Medicine.

The hydrogen sulfide entry from NIOSH’s Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards.

Ranges We Detect For Hydrogen Sulfide

Sensor Range

0 - 50.0 ppm

0 - 20.0 ppm

0 - 2000 ppb

0 - 1000 ppb

0 - 500 ppb

0 - 200 ppb

Measurement Specifics

Maximum Overload100 ppm
Resolution< 0.03 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.3 ppm

Maximum Overload100 ppm
Resolution< 0.03 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.3 ppm

Maximum Overload20 ppm
Resolution< 0.01 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.1 ppm

Maximum Overload20 ppm
Resolution< 0.01 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.1 ppm

Maximum Overload20 ppm
Resolution< 0.01 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.1 ppm

Maximum Overload20 ppm
Resolution< 0.01 ppm
Typical Baseline Range-0.1 ppm to 0.1 ppm

Not sure what range you need?

INDUSTRIES WE SERVE

Aerospace

Agriculture & Fertilizer

Chemical Manufacturing

Environmental Monitoring

Healthcare

Mining

Oil and Gas

Pharmaceutical

Semiconductor

Textiles

Waste Water Treatment

Wood, Paper & Pulp

Portable Gas Detection

GASD 8000

Portable Gas Detector

Elevate Safety Standards with the GasD® 8000 Portable Gas Monitor Read more... about GASD 8000

Fixed Gas Detection

AccuSafe

Fixed Point Gas Detection

Precision Gas Detectors Tailored to Your Facility Read more... about AccuSafe

The Role of Nitrogen Dioxide Monitoring in Protecting Public Health

The imperative of public health monitoring cannot be overstated. One of the most critical yet often overlooked elements is the monitoring of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a gas with well-documented negative impacts on respiratory health. With its prevalence in various industrial processes, understanding the gas safety importance associated with NO2 is crucial for protecting workers and the surrounding community.

How Nitrogen Dioxide Gas Detection Ensures Workplace Safety

Reliance on various gases is fundamental for processes in the manufacturing and processing sectors. Industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and automotive production heavily depend on gases like nitrogen oxides, particularly nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) . Nitrogen dioxide is a significant byproduct of combustion processes and serves as both a crucial reagent in chemical reactions and a compound that must be monitored carefully due to its associated health risks.

The Environmental Costs of Neglecting Nitrogen Dioxide Monitoring

Understanding the environmental and health repercussions of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a critical component of workplace safety. Nitrogen dioxide, a harmful byproduct of combustion processes found in various industries, including manufacturing and transportation, poses significant risks to both workers and the environment. Key sources include vehicles, power plants, and even equipment used within industrial operations.

The History of Ethylene: From Discovery to Industrial Use

Ethylene, a simple hydrocarbon with a profound impact on industrial operations, was discovered in the early 19th century. This flammable gas initially piqued the curiosity of chemists due to its unique properties and role as a plant hormone. However, its industrial significance was fully recognized much later, particularly during the synthesis of polyethylene in the mid-20th century, which established ethylene as a cornerstone in the chemical industry.

How Essential is Workplace Gas Monitoring for Ethylene?

Ethylene gas (C₂H₄) plays a crucial role in various industrial sectors, prominently in agriculture and petrochemicals. It is primarily used for ripening fruits, where it accelerates the maturation process, and in the production of plastics, antifreeze, and other chemicals. While its applications are widespread, the importance of ethylene detection cannot be overstated. Workers in environments where ethylene is present must be safeguarded against its potential hazards.

Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Detection